| Regulatory area to be addressed | Explosives Classification | |
| Natural Resources Canada and the U.S. Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration will work to align and promote the safe management of explosives materials including classification requirements. | ||
| Department/Agency | United States | Canada |
| U.S. Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) | Natural Resources Canada (NRCan) – Explosives, Regulatory and Business Services Branch (ERBSB) | |
| Work stream A Classification approval criteria |
Objective: Work toward enhanced recognition of explosives classification assessments. Rationale: Given the globalized nature of commercial explosives being manufactured and used, stakeholders have suggested a strong collaboration on the classification of explosives matters for ensuring a mutual recognition, where possible. |
|
| Planned initiatives and sub-deliverables | Date | |
| Initiative A – Existing equivalency | 2016 to 2017 | |
|
June 2016-June 2017 | |
|
June 2016 -June 2017 | |
|
June 2016 – June 2017 | |
|
December 2016 – December 2017 | |
|
December 2017 - June 2017 | |
| Work stream B Harmonization |
Objective: Work toward reducing variances in explosives classification. Rationale: The legislative systems differ between both countries, leading to varying regulatory approaches and requirements. By acting together, both countries may address individual national interests while achieving shared goals of greater safety and security. |
|
| Planned initiatives and sub-deliverables | Date | |
| Initiative A - Explosives classification | 2016 to 2017 | |
|
June 2017 | |
|
June 2016 – June 2017 | |
| Work stream C Issues identified internally and by stakeholders |
Objective: Maintain an on-going dialogue among NRCan, PHMSA and stakeholders for ensuring, where possible, reduction of unnecessary costs on businesses associated with different regulatory systems. Rationale: Internal review and stakeholders input has identified areas where regulatory variances have led to a different explosive classification having an impact on their operations where they might benefit from enhanced recognition. |
|
| Planned initiatives and sub-deliverables | Date | |
| Initiative A –Review of issues identified internally and by stakeholders | 2016 onwards | |
|
June 2016 – June 2017 | |
|
June 2016 – onwards | |
| Work stream D International Engagement |
Objective: There are a number of North American issues on the transportation of explosives (listed in Work Stream C Initiative A) which require work through international fora, or work at international locations. NRCan and PHMSA will explore opportunities to work collaboratively on these issues to advance joint positions. | |
| Planned initiatives and sub-deliverables | Date | |
| Initiative A – Collaboration on international standards and initiatives | ||
|
July 01, 2018 | |